The other day, my cousin and I were going through some of my Grandmother's old things to learn more about her. She passed away on May 14th, 2016. While we were looking, we came across some of her letters and some of my Grandfather's journals. He had written about his days in the Navy and the days he spent with his beautiful wife. It was amazing to have a tangible memory right there in our hands. Something that was written 50 years ago, and it is still here, laying in my Grandpa's front room.

1. It helps you remember things

Even if you're just writing a grocery list, physically writing something down as opposed to typing it in on your phone helps your brain better remember what you are writing. Also, if maybe a few years down the line you want to remember what you were thinking or feeling, you can look back at your old journals and reminisce.

2. Handwriting is more intentional

Taking a pen to paper, and personally writing something down like a letter or a thought, makes that piece of writing more personal. If you want someone to feel special and appreciated, then take the time to sit down and make an effort to achieve that goal.

3. It can help you figure things out

Sometimes your mind can become overwhelmed and cluttered and one of the best ways to help clear your mind is to just start writing. It sounds cliche, but seriously, it can be very therapeutic. It's like letting a clogged drain finally flow again. It allows you to see all of your thoughts in front of you and even realize that you maybe had some thoughts that you didn't know you kept up there.

4. You get to buy cool journals

I have stacks of journals that are each unique. I love buying journals even if I don't use them right away I at least know I will never have a shortage of things to write on. Stores have journals and notebooks for everyone. They have girly, inspirational, minimalist, leather, themed, etc. You don't have to worry about not finding a notebook for yourself.

5. It can give loved ones a glimpse into your life

After you're gone, and your loved ones are looking through your things trying to find any piece of you to hold on to, stumbling across an old journal filled with your writing can be an emotional roller coaster for loved ones. It will give them the opportunity to know you on a more personal level, see your thought process, and it just gives them a chance to feel like they are back with you, if only for a moment.

Write things down. Get some pen and paper, and let your life be remembered.